🎉 Introduction
When you want a dish that’s creamy, cozy, and packed with flavor, this Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is the perfect answer. It’s a comforting pasta dish that’s hearty enough for dinner but elegant enough to serve at a gathering.
The sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the savory garlic, parmesan, and spinach, while the orzo creates a risotto-like texture without all the stirring. It’s rich yet balanced, wholesome yet indulgent—a true one-pot comfort food.
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Saucepan (optional, for broth warming)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
🛒 Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp dried thyme
Pasta & Base
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups vegetable broth
Dairy & Richness
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Oils & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced butternut squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender.
Step 2: Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
Step 4: Pour in vegetable broth and add thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and creamy.
Step 5: Stir in roasted butternut squash, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and spinach. Mix until spinach wilts and sauce thickens.
Step 6: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4 portions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Not ideal, as cream sauces change texture when frozen.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream, or microwave in short bursts.
🥄 Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
- Cheese Swap: Try pecorino or asiago instead of parmesan.
- Vegan Version: Use coconut cream and vegan parmesan.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pine nuts on top.
- Extra Herbs: Add fresh sage or rosemary for fall vibes.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, roast directly from frozen—just extend baking time slightly.
2. Can I cook the squash in the skillet instead of roasting?
Yes, but roasting enhances its sweetness and flavor.
3. What if I don’t have orzo?
Pearl couscous or small pasta shapes work too.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it creamy.
5. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it’s fully vegetarian as written.
6. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, if you’re not vegetarian.
7. Can I make it lighter?
Yes, swap cream for half-and-half or milk.
8. How do I keep orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally while simmering and don’t overcook.
9. Can I add more veggies?
Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas would be great additions.
10. What can I serve with this dish?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted chicken.
🏁 Conclusion
This Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is everything you want in a cozy dinner—creamy, cheesy, and deeply flavorful. With roasted squash, fresh spinach, and parmesan in a one-pot orzo base, it’s a hearty vegetarian dish that’s simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough for guests.
Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach – Comfort in a Bowl
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Method
Notes
Yes, roast directly from frozen—just extend baking time slightly. 2. Can I cook the squash in the skillet instead of roasting?
Yes, but roasting enhances its sweetness and flavor. 3. What if I don’t have orzo?
Pearl couscous or small pasta shapes work too. 4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it creamy. 5. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it’s fully vegetarian as written. 6. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, if you’re not vegetarian. 7. Can I make it lighter?
Yes, swap cream for half-and-half or milk. 8. How do I keep orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally while simmering and don’t overcook. 9. Can I add more veggies?
Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas would be great additions. 10. What can I serve with this dish?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted chicken. 🏁 Conclusion This Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach is everything you want in a cozy dinner—creamy, cheesy, and deeply flavorful. With roasted squash, fresh spinach, and parmesan in a one-pot orzo base, it’s a hearty vegetarian dish that’s simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough for guests.
